What is G.I.R and how to help Leaky Gut

“Intestinal permeability or ‘leaky gut’ was one of the first issues that people learned about and sought out alternative practitioners for. Chronic damage to the GI walls causes people to have bloating, irregular bowel movements, food sensitivities and even brain fog. When people begin to use G.I.R they experience soothing and reduced inflammation in their belly and overtime can overcome some other sensitivities.” 

G.I.R™ Ingredient Highlights:

Zinc Carnosine:Zinc carnosine has been shown to have impressive mucosal-protective and anti-ulcerative properties, including combating H. pylori, protecting the intestinal lining, and supporting the integrity of tight junctions against intestinal mucosal damage caused by intense exercise or certain anti-inflammatory medications.¹ Compared to placebo, zinc carnosine was shown to neutralize the effect of the NSAID indomethacin on increasing gut permeability in healthy human subjects.³ (The placebo arm experienced a three-fold increase in gut permeability, while the zinc-treated group showed no significant change.) In a trial of patients with small bowel injury induced by extended use of low-dose aspirin, compared to untreated controls, subjects taking zinc carnosine for four weeks showed significant reductions in the number of reddened lesions and erosions/ulcers.⁴ Zinc carnosine—zinc complexed with the amino acid L-carnosine in a 1:1 chelate—is the preferred form of zinc for this formula because it adheres to ulcerous lesions more effectively, after which the L-carnosine and zinc are separated and exert healing effects on the tissue.⁵⁻⁶

L-Glutamine:Glutamine is critically important for healthy intestinal cells. It is their primary fuel and is also needed for repair and maintenance of high-turnover tissues such as the epithelial cells of the intestinal lining. Prolonged physiological and metabolic stress may deplete glutamine stores, making it a conditionally essential amino acid.⁷ Supplemental L-glutamine has been shown to have immunomodulatory, anticatabolic/anabolic, and gastrointestinal mucosal-protective actions. It may also enhance antioxidant status as a building block for glutathione. Trauma, infections, and other stressors increase the need for glutamine.⁸⁻⁹ Glutamine supplementation has been shown to reduce exercise-induced increases in small intestinal permeability, typically leading to inflammation and GI distress.¹⁰ It is essential in maintaining proper intestinal permeability and protecting against “leaky gut,” which may contribute to autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases.¹¹⁻¹³

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and Quercetin:These anti-inflammatory substances may help protect against increased intestinal permeability by reducing chronic inflammation. Quercetin provides direct anti-inflammatory action by stabilizing intestinal mast cells and supporting tissue health through antioxidant functions.¹⁴⁻¹⁷ MSM reduces inflammation, supports the immune system, and indirectly inhibits reactive oxygen species by downregulating COX-2 and nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).¹⁷

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (GlcNAc):GlcNAc aids structural support for intestinal cells and regulates inflammation in mucosal cells. It may help reduce intestinal permeability by increasing glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Research shows GlcNAc reduces biofilm formation by E. coli pathogens, which is a common consequence of dysbiosis in inflammatory bowel and celiac disease.¹⁸

It also demonstrates vaso-protective effects and reduces pro-inflammatory activity.¹⁹

DGL, Aloe Vera, Slippery Elm, Marshmallow, Chamomile, Okra, and Cat’s Claw:These botanicals have a history of use in gastrointestinal disorders. They coat and soothe the intestinal lining, promote healing of ulcers and inflamed tissue, and reduce cramping by relaxing the intestines.²⁰⁻²⁷

Mucin:Mucin, a glycoprotein secreted by intestinal epithelial cells, coats the intestinal lining and supports the mucosal layer. It helps neutralize intestinal antigens, reduce inflammation, and protect epithelial cells from injury. Additionally, mucin lubricates the GI tract, aiding the passage of materials.²⁸⁻³⁰

Prune Powder and Citrus Pectin:These ingredients promote regularity without the harsh effects of herbal laxatives like senna. Prunes are high in sorbitol and chlorogenic acid, which support healthy bowel function.³¹⁻³⁵

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